What is a panic attack characterized by?

A panic attack is characterized by a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes. This experience often includes a variety of physical symptoms that can be quite distressing, such as a racing heart, difficulty breathing, sweating, trembling, dizziness, and feelings of unreality or impending doom. These symptoms can be so intense that individuals may think they are having a heart attack or are dying.

The nature of a panic attack is such that it can occur unexpectedly or in response to a specific trigger. The experience is acute and overwhelming, distinguishing it from other emotional states or conditions that may involve prolonged feelings of happiness or calmness. This context clarifies why the option focusing on immediate feelings of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms accurately describes a panic attack.